Michael Duane Meracle Sr.

March 6, 1949 - February 16, 2021

Granite City- Michael Duane Meracle, Sr., 71, of Granite City, passed away at 12:18 AM, Tuesday, February 16, 2021 at Gateway Regional Medical Center in Granite City. Michael was born on March 6, 1949 in Herrin to Gilbert and Jessie (Goff) Meracle. Michael was a Christian and was baptized in Hurricane Baptist Church. He was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force where he served his country bravely during the Vietnam War. He was a hardworking man who retired as an operator from Allen Industries in Herrin. After retirement he drove a truck for JB Hunt and the American Red Cross and lastly for Gallow Bus Company. When he was not busy working, he enjoyed listening to classic rock and roll (he had a large collection of 45’s), reading about science fiction and space exploration and watching movies. He was a personable and outgoing man who loved to talk. He had his own radio program on the internet for a while. He will be dearly missed. Survivors include his sons- Michael D. Meracle, Jr. and wife Michelle and Phillip Meracle of Herrin, four grandchildren- Michael D. Meracle III and wife Megan of Royalton, William T. Meracle of Herrin, Melissa Craft and husband Austin of Gainesville, GA and Brandon Michael Meracle of Herrin, four great grandchildren and one on the way and his beloved friend and companion, Gerry Brown of Alton. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother- Bob Karaker. It was his wish to be cremated and a private family memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial arrangements were entrusted to Devin McCluskie of Leesman Funeral Homes of Southern Illinois. Memorial donations are suggested to the family and will be accepted at the funeral home or by the family. For more information, please visit www.leesmanfuneralhome.com